How often are you supposed to brush your teeth? According to your dentist in Naples, FL, you should brush your teeth twice a day, approximately 30 minutes following your last meal. Some people strictly follow this rule, while others think brushing four to five times a day can make their teeth healthier.
Regular brushing will help remove plaque and food debris from our teeth. It also prevents the formation of tartar, which is responsible for causing tooth decay and periodontal disease. What we currently know about oral care would make us think that overbrushing is okay. But is it?
Is Overbrushing Bad?
Dental Abrasion
Have you heard of dental abrasion before? According to Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, dental abrasion is defined as losing some of your tooth structure due to mechanical force from foreign objects like your toothbrush.
When you brush your teeth too hard and repeatedly more than what’s recommended, your enamel and gums can slowly wear away, causing the soft dentin and root surface of your teeth to become exposed. You’ll know its abrasion when you notice brown or yellow spots on your tooth close to the gum line.
Tooth Sensitivity
What happens next when your enamel has worn away due to excessive brushing? It will generally end in the result of experiencing tooth sensitivity. The reason is that these other surfaces of your teeth are not as hard and resistant as enamel to temperature changes in the pores of your tooth, causing you to experience pain or discomfort when your teeth come in contact with hot and cold food and drinks.
Are You Looking for a Reliable Dentist in Naples, FL?
Did you know that there are rules to brushing and flossing? You are encouraged to learn how to brush your teeth properly and use floss for maximum oral health protection. You will learn all these and more during your dental visit.
At Gulfside Dental, we promise to provide you with superior quality dental care that’s comprehensive, affordable, and personalized. We also offer patient education so you can take better care of your teeth and gums at home. With our state-of-the-art facility and modern-day techniques, we can guarantee that you will get the smile you deserve. Call us today for an appointment.